Last Minute Chicken Recipe: Quick and Delicious
Time often slips away, leaving you scrambling for dinner solutions. A reliable, last-minute chicken recipe can be a lifesaver for busy weeknights or surprise guests.
With just five ingredients—chicken breasts, olive oil, garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt—you can create a quick and delicious dish. Simply sear the chicken in a skillet, letting the garlic and seasoning work their magic.
To elevate this dish beyond the basics, explore additional possibilities.
Key Takeaways
- The recipe requires only five ingredients, making it quick and simple.
- Cooking time is short, with just 5-7 minutes per side for the chicken.
- Olive oil and garlic enhance flavor, while Italian seasoning adds an aromatic touch.
- Chicken rests for 5 minutes post-cooking to ensure juiciness and tenderness.
- Ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute meals with unexpected guests.
Recipe
When time is of the essence and you need a quick yet delicious meal, this last-minute chicken recipe is perfect for satisfying your hunger. With only five simple ingredients, this dish is both easy to prepare and full of flavor. The combination of olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning enhances the natural taste of the chicken, making it a delightful main course that can be paired with a variety of sides.
Whether it's a busy weeknight or unexpected guests arrive, this recipe is sure to impress without requiring too much time or effort. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the quick cooking method that keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
With minimal preparation, the chicken breasts are seasoned and cooked in a skillet, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. This recipe is a staple for those who appreciate a classic, flavorful dish that doesn't compromise on taste or quality, even when prepared in a hurry.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
To prepare the dish, start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil is heating, season the chicken breasts with salt and Italian seasoning on both sides.
Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic to the skillet, immediately followed by the chicken breasts. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, ensuring they're golden brown and have reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
After cooking, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and flavorful bite. For the best results, bring the chicken to room temperature about 15 minutes before cooking to promote even cooking.
If the chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider butterflying them or pounding them to an even thickness, which will help reduce the cooking time and ensure uniform doneness. Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, making this dish not only quick to prepare but also convenient for meal planning.
Cooking Steps
To get started on your last-minute chicken dish, heat olive oil in a large skillet, letting the aroma of the warming oil fill your kitchen.
Season the chicken breasts generously with salt and Italian seasoning, ensuring each piece is well-coated, then add minced garlic to the skillet, releasing its fragrant scent.
Cook the chicken until it reaches a beautiful golden brown, and don't forget to let it rest for a few minutes before serving to lock in those delicious juices.
Step 1. Heat Olive Oil in Skillet
As you begin the cooking process, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it shimmers, indicating it's hot enough to start cooking.
Feel the excitement build as the oil warms up, knowing you're just moments away from creating a delicious meal. The shimmering oil is like your signal to dive into the cooking adventure.
You'll love how the aroma fills your kitchen, setting the stage for a flavorful experience.
Make sure your skillet is big enough to comfortably fit the chicken breasts without crowding, as this ensures even cooking.
The medium-high heat allows the chicken to sear perfectly, locking in juices while forming a beautiful golden crust.
Step 2. Season Chicken With Spices
With anticipation, grab your seasoning essentials and get ready to transform those chicken breasts into a flavorful masterpiece.
Start by sprinkling a generous amount of salt and Italian seasoning on both sides of the chicken. As you do this, visualize the herbs enhancing every bite, bringing out the savory goodness.
Use your fingers to pat the spices gently onto the chicken, ensuring they cling tightly to the surface. This step is crucial because it lays the foundation for mouthwatering taste.
The salt enhances the meat's natural flavors, while the Italian seasoning adds an aromatic blend of herbs. With each touch, you're infusing the chicken with the promise of a delicious meal.
Your seasoned chicken is now ready to meet the sizzling skillet, creating a symphony of flavors!
Step 3. Add Garlic to Skillet
After seasoning the chicken to perfection, it's time to bring the skillet to life with the fragrant aroma of garlic.
Heat the olive oil until it's shimmering in the pan, then add the minced garlic. You'll immediately notice a delightful, savory scent filling your kitchen, setting the stage for a mouthwatering meal.
Be sure to keep the garlic moving, using a wooden spoon or spatula, so it doesn't burn. This step is quick but essential, as the garlic infuses the oil with its rich, robust flavor, enhancing every bite of your chicken.
As you watch the garlic gently sizzle and turn a soft golden, you'll know it's time to move to the next exciting step in your cooking journey!
Step 4. Cook Chicken Until Golden
Now's the time to add the seasoned chicken to the skillet, letting each piece sizzle in the aromatic garlic-infused oil.
It's a satisfying sound that signals you're on your way to a delicious meal. Watch as the chicken begins to turn golden, a sure sign of flavorful goodness developing.
Keep the heat steady, letting the skillet work its magic, turning each piece after 5-7 minutes. This ensures both sides achieve that perfect golden crust.
Use a spatula to gently lift and check the color. You're aiming for a rich, golden hue, not too dark. Remember, golden brown means flavor!
This simple step locks in the juices, keeping your chicken tender and delightful.
Enjoy the process—it's all about creating something delicious!
Step 5. Rest Chicken Before Serving
Once the chicken has reached that perfect golden brown, it's important to let it rest before serving. This step is crucial for locking in juices and enhancing the flavor, making each bite a delight.
When you let the chicken rest, the juices redistribute evenly, ensuring that every bite is tender and moist. Trust me, it's worth the wait!
Place the chicken on a clean cutting board or plate, and cover it loosely with foil to keep it warm. The resting period should be about 5 minutes.
During this time, you can prepare any sides, set the table, or simply savor the delicious aroma filling your kitchen.
Final Thoughts
This last minute chicken recipe is a lifesaver for busy evenings, offering both speed and flavor without compromise.
You'll love how easy it's to whip up a delicious meal in no time. With just a few simple ingredients, you're transforming ordinary chicken into a flavorful dish that everyone will enjoy. The combination of olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning creates an aroma that fills your kitchen with warmth and comfort, making dinner feel special.
Don't worry about having limited time or ingredients; this recipe has got you covered. Preparing this dish not only saves you time but also lets you savor a homemade meal without the stress.
So, next time you're in a pinch, remember this recipe and enjoy the delightful results!
[DIRECTIONS]:
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts for This Recipe?
Absolutely, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts!
Thighs add extra juiciness and flavor, making your dish even more delicious. Just remember, they may take a bit longer to cook, so ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Their rich, tender meat pairs perfectly with the garlic and herbs. Give it a try, and you'll find that the thighs bring a delightful twist to your meal!
What Can I Substitute for Italian Seasoning if I Don't Have It?
You've got the Italian seasoning blues, but don't worry, you've probably got a flavor powerhouse hiding in your pantry!
Just mix equal parts basil, oregano, and thyme. Add a pinch of rosemary and a dash of garlic powder to bring it all together.
This DIY blend will make your taste buds dance with delight. So grab those herbs, and let's turn that chicken into a mouthwatering masterpiece that's sure to impress!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
To spice things up, add some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
You could also chop up a fresh jalapeño and sauté it with the garlic for a fiery kick.
If you love smoky heat, incorporate a teaspoon of chipotle powder.
These spicy additions will elevate the dish, making it bold and exciting.
Enjoy experimenting with different spice levels to suit your taste!
Is It Possible to Bake the Chicken Instead of Pan-Frying?
Oh, you want to bake the chicken instead? Well, aren't you fancy!
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), and place the seasoned chicken and garlic in a baking dish. Drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
This method keeps the chicken tender and juicy, with a delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen. Give it a try, and enjoy your culinary masterpiece!
Can I Marinate the Chicken in Advance for More Flavor?
You can absolutely marinate the chicken in advance to boost flavor!
Mix olive oil, garlic, and Italian seasoning, then coat the chicken and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight. This helps the herbs infuse the chicken, making each bite even more delicious.
When you're ready to cook, just follow the same quick steps, and you'll enjoy an even more flavorful dish.
Give it a try!
